Honda NC 750X vs CB500x swap ??

[@Wawotch]

I own a DCT model for one year now. Perfect for anything I want to do here in Switzerland: go shopping, evening rides over small passes in the neighborhood with very narrow roads and tight U turns, day trips over a couple of alpine passes. It will certainly also do fine on longer tours next year; my wife is still learning (CB500F because the X was too tall) and we gradually extend our touring radius. Due to the low center of gravity, on tight twisting passes I can keep up with my friend riding a KTM 1090 Adventure. The NC can be thrown so easily around the sharp bends, and pulls out decently, it's a joy. After a short time, I got used to the DCT. I'm always in standard mode, full throttle causes downshifting and delays upshifting up to the limiter. And before overtaking I usually just tip on the minus button first. I'm 6ft 2, I mounted a raised seat (Top Sellerie, very comfortable). In summer, I mostly use the standard windscreen, but also the touring windscreen from Puig and a deflector from Aliexpress. The Puig deflector was too small, I still got a lot of buffeting.

[@Crohniebiker]

Very interesting to hear your views, im taking one out again from honda, this time for a full day as I'm considering buying one myself. 👍

[@MrJkfamilyguy59]

I own a 2024 Honda NC750x DCT and love it except the small windshield. So I bought the adjustable MadStad windshield for my NC. It a little pricey but worth every penny. I highly recommend it.

[@ken3163]

That was an excellent review. I was a returning rider after 30 years and the NC DCT was the first bike I bought and still use for touring. Its now kitted out with luggage and so on. Great bike which always surprises on economy and very good get up and go performance when needed! Safe riding and thanks 😃

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

There are 2 types of NC750X-DCT riders: Those who love them, and those who refuse to try one. The good points: Unbelievably frugal (I used to get 99.9mpg on a run) The frunk Easy to ride Fabulous riding position Smooth as butter gearbox Low-down centre of gravity Bargain (especially against the 'must have' GS) So, great for touring, great for commuting, it WILL give you thrills in the twisties. The bad points: Summary: I would have another in a heartbeat.

[@Crohniebiker]

What a great description 👌 I agree with 100% My Mrs refused to try mine until I eventually made her ride it , Now guess what..she loves it and is considering getting one herself. Thanks for watching 👍

[@ThePresidentofMars]

I dont think id refuse to have one, i just prefer having a clutch. I dont like using auto cars for the same reason. All that aside i cant decide between this and the cb500x for my first real bike

[@amp2amp800]

@@ThePresidentofMarsThen get the 750 without DCT

[@ThePresidentofMars]

@@amp2amp800 embarrassingly, i hadnt considered that

[@majordelays4909]

I rode the manual round Gran Canaria and was blown away how pleasant it was. I was scraping my pegs on the hairpins a little mind 😂

[@gazmoto]

My son has just bought a CB500X which I had a quick go on and I was very impressed so after a lifetime of big bikes such as the Africa Twin 1100, GS1200 I’ve decided that it’s now time to get a lighter bike as I’m tired of lugging the huge weight about and your review has made my mind up on the NC750X DCT as that’s something else I’ve always wanted to itch so cheers 😀😂

[@Crohniebiker]

Thanks for watching , I'm loving my NC750X the dct makes heavy traffic a breeze. And it's so relaxed on the motorway 👍

[@jerronimo6874]

Get 16t front sprocket for Your son. I sold my bikes and I’m keeping 500x now only. It’s more than enough

[@PrimoStracciatella]

Sometimes less is more! ;)

[@gazmoto]

@@jerronimo6874 I take it thats for motorway cruising?

[@jerronimo6874]

@@gazmoto I’ve figured it out that this bike have a lot of torque just from start. With 15t it will loose every of it after 3500rpm. With 16t torque feels much stronger (~30% in feel) all the way up to end of rpm. Just keep in mind the speedo would show REAL speed (the same as GPS). Now I’m cruising ~130kph without max rpm speed. Bike top speed would be ~170kph GPS speed (on 15t it will show around 190). 16t changed this bike to real motorcycle instead of 125cc feeling. It’s worth every money to spend

[@tref1013]

I gotta have that nc750x Dct !!! Been putting It off since 2017 !! And a leo vince pipe done I'm. 70s young

[@Crohniebiker]

Go for it, im sure you won't regret it. They're brilliant bike's. Thanks for watching 👍

[@1990-t1j]

No comparison. I'd MUCH rather have an NC, especially the DCT one. I saw one setting off at the traffic lights in Chiang Rai. He was clearly in economy-mode as I could hear the gears changing up quickly. I was astonished at how it accelerated. Obviously great lowdown torque. Definitely more go lowdown than the TA, which I wouldn't consider. The NC is let down by the non-adjustable screen, skinny bars and cheap swingarm. I was going to buy an NC but ended up with a pristine, low-mileage, secondhand SCR950. Another bike with peak torque low down: at 3,000 rpm in the SCR's case. I like the NC. I like how the weight is carried so low, and that dummy tank storage unit is superb. This might have only been a comparison, but it was a very thorough review. I enjoyed it. Nick J

[@Crohniebiker]

Thank you for watching I appreciate it👍

[@asterix908]

This is interesting. I have the nc and I sometimes miss the round headlight. The scr950 has captivated my interest a lot.

[@1990-t1j]

@@asterix908 It's only drawback is its weight: 248 kg wet, but it's carried pretty low, and it aids stability.

[@ChadWinters]

also really needs cruise control

[@Carstend75]

Great review, I like you’re testing gear and acceleration at different speeds and bringing your friends along 👍🏼😀. Greetings from Denmark

[@Crohniebiker]

Thank you for watching , I'm glad you liked it 😊

[@kevinf-b5065]

I had the Crosstourer DCT before but it was too top heavy, especially pushing it around now I'm getting on a bit.

[@simonlye007]

Bloody tearaways! Ha ha🤣Good to meet you and Michelle at WW. Liking the comparison so far. Cheers.🤖😎

[@Crohniebiker]

Thanks for watching Simon 👍

[@asterix908]

The main issue with stock nc is the wind blast as you mentioned. This can be fixed with aftermarket adjustable windscreen and adjusting it to your height. In the drag race, if you were in sport mode, you'd have a better head start. Its got so much get up and go and quick too. You could also peddle shift down to 4th gear and you'd have instant go.

[@Crohniebiker]

Well, I ended up buying one, and I love it ,and yes, as I've gotten used to the modes and paddle shift I'm very impressed with it. I have also experimented with the windshield risers ,I've raised it 50mm but still suffer terrible buffeting. I'll probably have to get aftermarket windshield next . Thanks for the comments 👍

[@robertmarsh3588]

Such a lovely bike. Smooth, economical, torquey, easy to handle, and good-looking. I have the Forza 750. I much prefer the scooter type controls on an auto and wish the NC750X had these too, rather than having a conventional motorbike rear brake position and "missing" clutch lever. The 2025 upgrades on the NC are pretty good. Would be amazing with another 15bhp and 1000rpm. How about an 850 version, Honda?

[@Crohniebiker]

@robertmarsh3588 thanks for watching I fully agree with your sentiments 👍. I was impressed with the 25 model recently at the NEC bike show 👌

[@blearyview2254]

I am into the fifth year of ownership with the 2019 NC (manual) and can say it still puts a huge smile on my face. Never ridden the 500X but had the CL500 the other day and can say that the NC just feels like a real grown up bike in comparison. The 2023 version of the NC is lower than mine and does feel a little more cramped than mine. A perfect example of a bike that is greater than the individual parts. Good review and good luck with your choice👍

[@volt8684]

Nice review and I felt like you did after a test ride so I bought one. Kept it 3 months. Bought a v strom650 xt. Night and day the suzuki better in everyway for me except fuel economy and valve adjustment. I began to detest the dct after some hard mountain/ hairpins. Was a 21 plate. Just my pennyworth.

[@Crohniebiker]

I went back to honda a week later and booked it out again for a longer test ride, liked it even more so I've ordered one . I realise they're not for everyone but I'm looking forward to getting it . I will probably be doing a video on it when I get it .thanks for watching 👍

[@karlhoward2737]

Love my 2023 DCT version, added a rad protector, engine bars, hand protectors and fender extender, oh and a centre stand….the rear hugger, big issue, the last bolt on the disk side ie bolt nearest fuel tank on swingarm, well mine goes around and around, cannot get it out, now dealer looking at getting this sorted, under warranty..bit annoying, also the windscreen scratches even by breathing on it….plus sides, great in slow traffic, great to manoeuvre when swerving to miss a car driver pulling out from the left, did not see me…I was out wide and anticipated she might pull out….I find the bike just great, I am a returned rider after 42 years, last rode in 1981, on a crazy Yamaha RD250LC, until a drunk driver ended my bike and almost me….so my injuries still plague me…the DCT is perfect, I find if you are gentle, relaxed and look far ahead, this bike is simply for me the best, a 60 th birthday present from the wife….she calls my bike Daisy…..I do not, it’s Silver Machine after Hawkwind….yep I’m that old…great little insight to a very good bike. Cheers from Jersey.

[@Crohniebiker]

Thanks for your great response, everybody who's got one loves it. I'm taking it out again next Saturday for a full day this time so I can get a few hundred miles on it .cheers ride safe 👍

[@karlhoward2737]

@@Crohniebiker hi, just back from a 50 mile ride around my island….really bonding with my bike, I find the rain mode is so good for extra slow riding….had a lot of that today, very busy island….my bike is going in next month to get that faulty bolt either drilled out…..or a brand new swing arm might be put in, full days work, and all for one faulty bolt…..anyway, no deterred, the bike is excellent, really great in twisties, and in sports mode it can really shift…..downside…..well a crap summer to enjoy for me as near perfect bike as possible….enjoy your full day, safe riding and cheers from a now very hot Jersey..

[@Crohniebiker]

@karlhoward2737 thanks for your reply I am really looking forward to Saturday, hopefully get at least 200miles done hopefully it's sunny . Hope you get yours fixed too . Thanks for watching 👍

[@suerichards264]

I love my 2023 NC. I have the manual version. I bought it for touring, so far it’s been good. I have just reupholstered my seat though before my next adventure. I was surprised to find I got better mpg in sport mode, so far the best is 103.7 mpg

[@Crohniebiker]

That's amazing mpg for a 750 it's on par with my cb500x, which will be going soon as I've placed an order for the NC and can't wait to get it . Thanks for watching 👍

[@fabioasterix750]

👍🏼got a new One Also manual Also using It for day/couple days trips Often with Pillion and luggage, Always Easy and comfortable, and I'm a beginner

[@fredarts6114]

If only with a better dash board and simple cruise control.... winner winner ...

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes it would be great if it had same dash as the transalp with phone connection. Still a great bike though 👌

[@theodavies8754]

Reckon if I was going to buy a bike to ride to the south of France that would be ideal. Happy days from sunny Devon.

[@Crohniebiker]

@theodavies8754 I can agree with that ,I rode mine down rode Croatia 🇭🇷 in the summer ☀️, it was amazing on fuel, I did see 92mpg average at one point. But the lack of cruise control has made me trade in for a Africa twin now .👍

[@serious_in_seattle6917]

I bought a BMW F750GS in June. Awesome bike but much more power and features than I need for my commuting routine. I wish I would have bought the Honda NC750X instead. I’m really short so I spent $800+ to lower the already low chassis version an additional 30 mm with Touratech springs front and rear. I could have lowered this for about $250 and had everything I need. In the spring I hope to buy one of these, or perhaps a Triumph Speed Twin 900 or new Kawasaki Eliminator 450. Ergonomics is a big deal for me and the Kawasaki actually fits me best. I need more money 💵 and a larger garage! 😅

[@Crohniebiker]

I'd go for a test ride if you can ,you would love it 😀 Thanks for watching 👍

[@Nick-Emery]

Haha more money and a larger garage… I feel you on that one

[@asterix908]

I would say go down to 500 class. I have the nc and for commuting I'd like something smaller and nimbler.

[@serious_in_seattle6917]

@@asterix908 I think I will buy the Kawasaki Eliminator 450. It fits me so well and has enough power to ride the highway for a while whenever needed.

[@daveautie2030]

Thanks for a good real world and comprehensive review ,I am seriously thinking of trading my piaggio 400 scooter for one of these.

[@Crohniebiker]

Thanks for the comment. I've never riden the piaggio 400,I wonder how it compares to my ADV350?

[@geecee4746]

Enjoyed this, i had a nc750x dct and i miss it, i will buy another 😁😁

[@bmp72]

Same here, had a 2016 and sold it, now I want it back.

[@shawk904]

Easily one of my fav ride videos with this bike. I have a CB500X and likely will have an NC shortly as well.

[@Crohniebiker]

Thanks for the support, I appreciate it 👍

[@asterix908]

I think the CB500x is fantastic, you might be disappointed with the NC, unless your main goal is long distance touring. For everything else, CB500X is probably already better.

[@ABeTorAiTiTo]

The only reason I bought this bike is the DCT… it’s soooooo good❤

[@Crohniebiker]

I agree, I bought the DCT but I wouldn't have had it as a manual. The DCT is so good in my opinion.

[@oldgriff8559]

Wind buffering compared to the cb500x ? Is it the same..which really bugs me..do love the thought of an automatic gear box..

[@Crohniebiker]

I think the cb500x is better once you raise the screen up with those aftermarket brackets. The dct is a work of genius. Thanks for watching 👍

[@sordmasta6646]

I have a question. Can the handbrake be released while the bike is off / key is out ?

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes the hand brake is cable operated on the rear disc . It doesn't matter if the key is in or out . Thanks for watching 👍

[@Charles-gm2ig]

Great review. How tall are you?

[@Crohniebiker]

I'm 6'1" and although the bike feels a bit low fir me ,it's actually quite comfortable when riding .thanks for watching.

[@633160]

I ride the NC and have looked at the CB500x for my wife but the extremely exposed exhaust of the pipes of the CB make it a non starter as I like taking the NC of the beaten track from time to time ..... strange Honda has fitted a 19" wheel on the CB but not given the exhaust a 2nd thought ...... now if they,d just put a 19" on the NC and better front shocks it would be a world beater.

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes, I think that would make the nc much better for a little tame off-roading. 👍

[@thomasweirs1971]

Excellent review! So....ya trading in the 500X? You mentioned a couple times about the low seat height...did the seat to peg distance feel cramped? I'd replace the seat straight away but that's only buying a inch or so. This one is the next one on my list

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes I did indeed buy the 750x , The seat is definitely a concern being both too uncomfortable and a little low for me .fortunately i don't mind the seat to peg once I'm riding, The seat can be re workedat some point I'm sure. Still it's a brilliant bike with the DCT so I feel it's a great choice for me 👍

[@jonathanmellish4439]

Very interesting review, especially as its against a 500x which is also on my radar. Quite a price difference though.

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes but I can say the NC is a lot quicker than the 500x if that's what you want. Although the 500x remains a fantastic allrounder👍

[@jonathanmellish4439]

@@Crohniebiker thanks. As you say i believe they updated the NC in 2019, lower, better dct and larger trunk.

[@fabioasterix750]

I had both New models Consider I'm a beginner I think the 500x Is funnier and Is the only One capable off-road 750x Is Better for riding with Pillion and luggage, Better on highways, does not vibrate at full throttle

[@filipepaninho6558]

After 8 years with a Transalp 650 I tried a NC700X, hated it and prefered the 2013 CB500X... never regreted it. 2 years after tried the NC750X and finally liked the NC and then replaced for a 2016 2nd gen NC750X manual until today. Like it a lot. But I hate this 3 gen NC, too low, looks too bulky... DCT version is good too as is on the Africa Twin 1000, needs to be in Sport...

[@Crohniebiker]

I did like my cb500x too, but I like my nc way more on a longer run and I find the dct excellent. Thanks for watching 👍

[@davidxavier2739]

85 to the gallon, is the Imperial Gallon or the USA / standard gallon?

[@Crohniebiker]

Hi ,it's the imperial gallon. Thanks for watching 👍

[@kevinf-b5065]

I have the same bike and find if I leave it in standard mode the chain doesn't need adjusting for 3,500 miles plus. Keep it clean and regularly lubed. Fuel economy is fantastic, great for touring.

[@1990-t1j]

Most chains don't need adjusting between services.

[@1990-t1j]

@@birchwoodbiker I lube mine every 500 km/300 miles.

[@fabioasterix750]

I rode the 750x for about 8.000Km Never touched anything Maybe I should Lube the chain? Would you Say it's Better to?

[@ZedTee190]

I've got a knackered left wrist. I'd been riding CVT Scooters, but bought a new NC750 in 2019. I was amazed and pleased with it. It wasn't the fastest or most exciting bike, but it was mega practical, incredibly frugal in fuel and with the DCT, simple to ride. I thought it was a great bike but some people like to hate on it. Anyway, I upgraded to a Rebel1100 last year also with the DCT. I do kinda miss the NC at times!

[@wmranson9311]

Curious if you notice more torque and top end with the Rebel. I am considering buying the Rebel. Trying to decide NC or Rebel.

[@ZedTee190]

@@wmranson9311 The Rebel1100 has a lot more torque & bhp than the NC750 and is pretty quick off the mark! The NC wasn't slow - but the Rebel1100 is noticeably quicker. As for top end. I never go above 80mph on a bike so I can't comment really. The wind blast and noise isn't much fun for me. Depending where you are in the world, the Rebel1100 is limited to 99mph for some strange reason.. North America being one.

[@RonnieTallud]

@@ZedTee190what’s a better overall bike im trying to decide between the rebel 1100 or nc750

[@ZedTee190]

@@RonnieTallud Oh man, thats a hard question! Both have their pro's and con's. The NC has 2 things I didn't like; the lack of cruise control and the engine could do with a few more ponies - but the crazy good MPG compensates for that I guess. The Rebel had a great engine with enough punch for everyday fun. It's a great looking bike. However, the ergonomics are not good. God knows what Honda were thinking. The saddle is literally painful after an hour or so. The handlebars are too low and the footpegs too far back. That being said, most of that will depend on your size & body shape. There are many aftermarket accessories to remedy those issues though - at a cost to the owner. The fuel tank is quite small too, after 100 miles or so, you'll be looking to refuel, but if you have the stock saddle thats not a bad thing as you can get the blood circulating again to your @ss! The upcoming MY25 model addresses the ergonomic issues. So inclosing, all I can suggest is you go to a dealer and try one for size. HTH.

[@mickleblade]

I was put off this by Honda lowering the seat height so low. They lowered the foot pegs too, 30mm lower than a CBF600 which already touches down a bit early. Some far too cheap components too (basic forks, single front disc, antique swingarm).

[@fabioasterix750]

You feel the difference in the braking I don't know if due to forks, but they also feel very different on bumps

[@fabioasterix750]

Had both 2022 and 2023 models 500x Is a Better bike Much better on countryroads Funnier Smoother when you get a bump It vibrates a bit too much 750x Is Better on the highway and a bit more comfortable for a pillion

[@ianroberts7195]

The standard bike doesn’t come with any of the accessories you mentioned such as top etc, but nice video

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes correct I should have made that more clearer 👍thanks for watching.

[@JohnRichardson-v2l]

Do you find yourself riding faster cos it's so smooth etc, etc. 'Ull' east yorkshire.

[@hawedehre]

Audio is left only, but I can hear you.

[@mbk1251]

It all about practically NC7 is a workhorse you buy with your head on facts high miles petrol returns easy maintenance

[@Crohniebiker]

Absolutely agree with you 👍

[@arismous8586]

Hello I have cb500x . You think it’s good choice to swap for nc750x ?dct

[@Crohniebiker]

@arismous8586 I did it and I have to say the NC750DCT is a brilliant road bike .I have just returned from a 3000mile euro trip and it was like a Swiss watch all the way.

[@arismous8586]

@@Crohniebiker have you any think be missing to you for cb500x?

[@Crohniebiker]

@arismous8586 the only thing is that the 500X is better at off roading.

[@arismous8586]

@@Crohniebiker what about the fun to ride ? The cb500x it’s more revving

[@macp988]

is nc750x viable for some medicore offroad when you put 50/50 tires?

[@richardhretczak536]

Definitely. I got my 2022 (standard transmission) month ago with new Michelin Road Pilot 6 front and rear and it was pretty good on gravel. After replacing front only with Continental TKC80 it is really good.

[@robertoc2485]

Just my view but I think there's too much technology on new bikes. All that stuff on the controls you mentioned before you left the dealers. I'm not sure it's needed. I would find it a bit distracting. I enjoyed the review though. Thank you.

[@Crohniebiker]

It can get a bit too much, like the Africa twin now that's definitely got too many buttons! To be honest, you soon get used to it. The NC isn't too complicated. Thanks for your comments. I appreciate you watching 👀

[@handsfree1000]

Will Honda make a NX750?

[@Crohniebiker]

I doubt it , they already have the transalp 750 , But if they did a transalp with the DCT I'd buy one .

[@BikenutGB]

Sorry but I couldn't hear it. I think you're recording on the left channel only and not stereo

[@moxy909]

Have tried the xadv, I took both out, enjoyed both, totally different but chose the xadv .... dct is the future 😂

[@michaelwade1092]

could i ask what a "FRUNK" is? is it a play on words? because if it is surely it should be a FRANK? I.e. a Front Tank? Just saying

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes, you know what that does make more sense, I just hear people calling it a frunk. Thanks for watching 👍

[@pierrewilliams1533]

It is a play on words. It stands for front trunk.

[@sussexbikerpillion]

Honda putting price of it up now.

[@Crohniebiker]

When I bought my ADV 350 the price went up while I was waiting for delivery. Unfortunately it's the sign off the times 👍

[@mikaellundsrensen6108]

How tall are you? I am 189cm that might be a problem on an otherwise very interesting bike 🤔

[@Crohniebiker]

I'm 185cm and to be honest it did feel quite low but I understand they do a seat mod that raises it up a little and also there's a guy on KZbin called Birchwood biker and he's put longer link's in his rear shock which has raised it up about 40mm extra. Thanks for watching 👍

[@robevans8555]

I am new to biking (48) and considering the nc750 dct, is that cheating lol

[@Crohniebiker]

No, I don't think so at all. You still have the option to change gear manually if you want, so why people don't embrace this technology 🤔 I don't understand. It's a fantastic bike. Thanks for watching 👍

[@ThePresidentofMars]

​@@Crohniebikerpeople like using clutch, myself included

[@sussexbikerpillion]

🤫 best kept secret.

[@Crohniebiker]

Exactly 💯 % thats why I bought one 👌

[@lalocontreraslpz]

mph?

[@Crohniebiker]

Yes mph 👍

[@reg56114]

could bearly here any of it

[@AHoundOnAHonda]

Or barely hear any of it.

[@leemason5953]

I think you can get it with a higher seat mod,ask honda👍

[@markhinde6187]

Because the bike was not run in, the drag races and speed tests were a bit cruel......LOL

[@johnwillem9697]

Strange Place on the Road

[@Crohniebiker]

I'm not sure what you mean 🤔

[@Patshes]

🆒😎👍!

[@vlaho1967]

Cb 500 x is better bike. !

[@Crohniebiker]

Depends on what you want. If you want something to tour on, then the NC wins hands down, but if you want something to do a bit of gentle off-road, then the 500x wins .they both have good points

[@Opa12018]

Thii is kawasaki versys

[@jamesballard6564]

It's a Honda equivalent, though it is fuel injected; not carbureted.

[@pierrewilliams1533]

You repeat yourself a lot in this video.